Calibratable Mood Patch-Apparatus and Method of Use

ABSTRACT

A mood patch is fabricated by applying a thermotropic crystal material onto a flexible backing material. An encapsulant is placed over the thermotropic crystal material. The mood patch is coupled to the skin of an individual using a non-allergenic adhesive. The adhesive is applied to the contact side of the backing material during the fabrication process or the application process. The mood patch changes color to indicate the emotional state of an individual. This change in state is used by a clinically trained person, a supervisor or other technically trained individual to monitor and react to a change in emotional state of an individual by monitoring and interpreting the presented color of the mood patch. The mood patch can be of any shape and further include artwork on the face to improve aesthetics. A plurality of thermotropic material deposits can be utilized, each with a different activation temperature allowing the user to calibrate to the wearer&#39;s current emotional state. A calibration indicator is incorporated to further aid in calibrating the mood patch.

RELATED US APPLICATION DATA

This patent application claims priority to Provisional PatentApplication 60/699,942 filed Jul. 16, 2005 and subsequently filedUtility application Ser. No. 11/474,012 filed on Jun. 23, 2006; all ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to an apparatus and method using temperaturesensing material(s) applied to a flexible backing for monitoring anindividual's mood/emotional state for another to monitor to determineanother's change in emotional state and guide the monitoring party totake a respective action.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are a number of known methods for identifying subtle changes intemperature. One such known method is incorporated in an apparatuscommonly known as a Mood Ring. By wearing said Mood Ring, the rings“stone” changes color to reflect ones mood. The Mood Ring utilizesthermotropic liquid crystals placed into a hollow glass shell. The glassshell is then coupled to a material (Plastic, metal, etc.) in the shapeof a ring. The thermotropic liquid crystals react to subtle changes inthe wearer's physical reaction to change of emotional state (subtlechanges in skin temperature). The thermotropic liquid crystals are verysensitive to changes in temperature. A change in temperature causes thethermotropic liquid crystals molecules to twist or change position. Theresultant change in orientation causes a change in the molecularstructure. The change in molecular structure changes the interactionwith wavelengths of light resulting in an apparent change in color. MoodRings are generally calibrated wherein the mid range of the color changeis 82 Degrees Fahrenheit, the surface temperature of a typicalindividual.

The thermotropic liquid crystals are one name/form of material that canbe used. Other names are Thermo-chromic liquid crystals. Thermo meanstemperature; Chromic means color. The material changes their reflectivecolor as a function of temperature when illuminated by white light.There are different degrees of accuracy for the material.

Thermotropic materials are characterized by an activation temperatureand a bandwidth. For example, an R40C5W describes a thermotropicmaterial that activates with a Red color at 40C and the 5W implies startof a blue at 5C above the red color. Narrow band crystals are definedfor formulations that have a bandwidth that is less than 2C.

Thermotropic materials can be encapsulated, wherein said thermotropicmaterial is encapsulated in a 5-10 micron sphere, suspended in a waterbased binder material. The encapsulation provides good protection forthe thermotropic material.

Alternately, thermotropic materials can be unencapsulated, wherein saidthermotropic material is presented in its native form. Thisconfiguration provides brilliant colors, but is more susceptible tocontamination.

Although Mood Rings are used to indicate emotional states of anindividual, the practice has never been applied to clinical orprofessional consideration for behavioral communications. Additionally,mood rings have not been clinically proven as a therapeutic,investigative, evaluative tool.

The use of thermotropic liquid crystals was further applied to variousapparatus to create thermometers. One such thermometer is taught byFuller in U.S. Pat. No. 4,388,139. Fuller teaches a process of applyinga plurality of cholesteric liquid crystal compositions over a firstsubstrate, then applying a second substrate over said first substratesuch to encapsulate said cholesteric liquid crystal compositions. Thesecond substrate further comprising apertures indicating thetemperature. Said cholesteric liquid crystal compositions are respectiveto each indicated temperature and chemically unique such that eachsection reacts to such unique, calibrated temperature. When thethermometer is applied against an object comprising a temperature, saidcholesteric liquid crystal compositions react respectively, wherein onlyone such specific cholesteric liquid crystal composition changes colorand all others either remain clear or become black. This processindicates the respective temperature of the object.

Several other thermometers are fabricated using similar technology. Asecond such teaching is Inoue, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,154,106.

In all, the thermometers fail to teach the use of this type oftechnology for clinically treating emotional states of an individual.

Mood rings are generally small and difficult for another party tomonitor.

It is not known to utilize mood rings (or similar) as a means forclinical treatment/emotional understanding of another party. One wouldneed to understand the color/temperature/emotional state relationship ofthe wearer and current mood rings are very limited, as they assume thecolor range for an average wearer.

Current mood indicator devices utilize a single thermal changingmaterial to identify a wearer's mood. Thermometers utilize a pluralityof thermotropic liquid crystals, more specifically a plurality ofcholesteric liquid crystal compositions which indicate a specifictemperature.

What is desired is a means for an individual to monitor another'semotional state as a means to assist in clinical treatment/emotionalunderstanding of another party. It is further desired that said meansfor monitoring another's emotional state is more accurate than a typicalmood ring toy. It would be beneficial to be able to calibrate theapparatus to the wearer's current emotional state.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

A first aspect of the present invention is the ability for a supervisorto monitor a supervisee's emotional state such to provide a clinicalinsight into the supervisee's emotional state. Said supervisor would beany monitoring party and said supervisee would be any wearer of a MoodPatch apparatus. Alternate terms such as Clinician/Doctor or patient canbe used respectively.

A second aspect of the present invention is the ability for a supervisorto identify, consider and optionally react to a change in thesupervisee's emotional state.

A third aspect of the present invention is the ability for a supervisorto identify, consider and optionally react to a change in thesupervisee's emotional state as a result of observing the change instate of a Mood Patch.

A fourth aspect of the present invention is the ability for a supervisorto identify, consider and optionally react to a change in thesupervisee's emotional state as a result of observing the change instate of a Mood Patch, wherein said supervisee's are at least one of:

-   -   Students    -   Emotionally handicapped students    -   Son/Daughter    -   Patient(s)    -   High Stress employment positions (Air Traffic Controllers,        Doctors, Pilots, Corporate Executives, etc.)    -   Athletes    -   Detainees (arrested personal, etc.)    -   Military Personnel    -   Trauma workers

A fifth aspect of the present invention is the ability for a supervisorto react to a change in the supervisee's emotional state as a result ofobserving the change in state of a Mood Patch, wherein said supervisorsare at least one of:

-   -   Physicians/Surgeons/Dentists/Nurses/Medical Personnel    -   Therapists (psychologists, social workers, counselors, behavior        specialists, etc.)    -   Geriatric Support Personnel—Therapists (Mental Health, Physical        therapy, Occupational therapy, Speech therapy, and the like)    -   Teachers/Classroom Monitors (General, Special Education, and the        like)    -   Occupational Therapists and Physical Therapists    -   Detention Center Supervisors/Guards and the like    -   Emergency response personnel (Police, Medics, Fire fighters, and        the like)    -   Coaches (Athletic, academic, and the like)    -   Corporate Supervisors (Executives, Managers, Human Resources,        and the like)    -   Military Supervisors and Trainers

A sixth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatus.

A seventh aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatus,said apparatus comprising a backing member and a thermotropic material.

An eighth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatus,said apparatus comprising a backing member, a thermotropic material, andan encapsulant.

A ninth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatus, saidapparatus comprising a backing member and a thermotropic material andwherein said backing member further comprises an adhesive.

A tenth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatus, saidapparatus comprising a backing member, a thermotropic material, and anencapsulant and wherein said backing member further comprises anadhesive.

An eleventh aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatuswherein said encapsulant is of a clear plastic.

A twelfth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatuswherein said encapsulant is of a thin glass.

A thirteenth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatuswherein said encapsulant is of a polyterephthalate (Mylar), preferablyof a thickness of 0.001-0.25″ thick, such to remain flexible.

A fourteenth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatuswherein said backing material has a high coefficient of thermal energy(good transfer of temperature).

A fifteenth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatuswherein said backing material is of a thin metal base.

A sixteenth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatuswherein said backing material is of a thin, flexible metal base.

A seventeenth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatuswherein said backing material is of a thin, flexible metal base, such asaluminum foil.

An eighteenth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatuswherein said backing material is of a thin plastic base.

A nineteenth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatuswherein said backing material is of a thin polyterephthalate (Mylar), ofa thin silicon, or of a thin urethane.

A twentieth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatuswherein said backing material is of a thin resin based material.

A twenty-first aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch apparatuswherein said backing material is of a thin fabric material.

A twenty-second aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patchapparatus wherein said backing material is of a thin flexible materialsuch as those used for adhesive bandages.

A twenty-third aspect of the present invention is the utilization of anadhesive applied to the back of said Mood Patch; wherein said adhesiveis utilized to couple said Mood Patch to a wearer.

A twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention is the utilization of aplurality of thermotropic materials, wherein said thermotropic materialsoperate about slightly offset temperature ranges from each other.

A twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention is the utilization of aplurality of cholesteric liquid crystal compositions, wherein saidcholesteric liquid crystal compositions operate about slightly offsettemperature ranges from each other.

A twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention is the utilization of aplurality of cholesteric liquid crystal compositions, wherein saidcholesteric liquid crystal compositions operate about slightly offsettemperature ranges from each other, wherein further the cholestericliquid crystal compositions become clear upon a particular temperaturerange.

A twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention is the utilization of aplurality of cholesteric liquid crystal compositions, wherein saidcholesteric liquid crystal compositions operate about slightly offsettemperature ranges from each other, wherein further the cholestericliquid crystal compositions become clear upon a particular temperaturerange, making text located beneath said cholesteric liquid crystalcomposition visible.

A twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patchcomprising a plurality of thermotropic materials, wherein saidthermotropic materials operate about slightly offset temperature rangesfrom each other, thus providing an apparatus that presents a “referencestate” for the current emotional state of the wearer.

A twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patchcomprising a plurality of cholesteric liquid crystal compositions,wherein said cholesteric liquid crystal compositions operate aboutslightly offset temperature ranges from each other, thus providing anapparatus that presents a “reference state” for the current emotionalstate of the wearer.

A thirtieth aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patch comprising aplurality of cholesteric liquid crystal compositions, wherein saidcholesteric liquid crystal compositions operate about slightly offsettemperature ranges from each other, thus providing an apparatus thatpresents a “reference state” for the current emotional state of thewearer, wherein the offset is within a range less than 1 degreeFahrenheit between adjacent compositions.

A thirty-first aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patchcomprising a plurality of cholesteric liquid crystal compositions,wherein said cholesteric liquid crystal compositions operate aboutslightly offset temperature ranges from each other and wherein saidcholesteric liquid crystal compositions become transparent when exposedto a specific temperature range and opaque when outside that particulartemperature range.

A thirty-second aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patchcomprising a plurality of cholesteric liquid crystal compositions, eachplaced over a text respective to the specific formulation of cholestericliquid crystal composition, wherein said cholesteric liquid crystalcompositions operate about slightly offset temperature ranges from eachother and wherein said cholesteric liquid crystal compositions becometransparent when exposed to a specific temperature range and opaque whenoutside that particular temperature range, thus making the respectivetext visible upon exposure to the specific temperature range.

A thirty-third aspect of the present invention is a Mood Patchcomprising a plurality of cholesteric liquid crystal compositions,wherein said cholesteric liquid crystal compositions operate aboutslightly offset temperature ranges from each other and wherein saidcholesteric liquid crystal compositions become transparent when exposedto a specific temperature range and opaque when outside that particulartemperature range, thus making the respective text visible upon exposureto the specific temperature range; said Mood Patch further comprising afirst group of text indicators, a second group of text indicators, andadditional groups of text indicators, wherein each group has arespective series of cholesteric liquid crystal compositions and eachset of cholesteric liquid crystal compositions is thermally offset fromthe other by one or more text references.

A thirty-fourth aspect of the present invention is a method offabrication, wherein said Mood Patch is fabricated via the followingprocess:

-   -   a. Locate a section of base material;    -   b. Apply a first thermotropic material layer;    -   c. Apply a second thermotropic material layer, wherein said        second thermotropic material has a slightly different thermal        property from said first thermotropic material; and    -   d. Repeat for each additionally desired thermotropic material        layer, wherein said additional thermotropic material has a        slightly different thermal property from the other thermotropic        material layers.

A thirty-fifth aspect of the present invention is a method offabrication, wherein said Mood Patch is fabricated via the followingprocess:

-   -   a. Locate a section of base material;    -   b. Apply a first thermotropic material layer;    -   c. Apply a second thermotropic material layer, wherein said        second thermotropic material has a slightly different thermal        property from said first thermotropic material;    -   d. Repeat for each additionally desired thermotropic material        layer, wherein said additional thermotropic material has a        slightly different thermal property from the other thermotropic        material layers; and    -   e. Cure said thermotropic material between each application.

A thirty-sixth aspect of the present invention is a method offabrication, wherein said Mood Patch is fabricated via the followingprocess:

-   -   a. Locate a section of base material;    -   b. Apply a material dam layer;    -   c. Apply a first thermotropic material layer;    -   d. Apply a second thermotropic material layer, wherein said        second thermotropic material has a slightly different thermal        property from said first thermotropic material; and    -   e. Repeat for each additionally desired thermotropic material        layer, wherein said additional thermotropic material has a        slightly different thermal property from the other thermotropic        material layers.

A thirty-seventh aspect of the present invention is a method offabrication, wherein said Mood Patch is fabricated via the followingprocess:

-   -   a. Locate a section of base material;    -   b. Apply a first thermotropic material layer;    -   c. Apply a second thermotropic material layer, wherein said        second thermotropic material has a slightly different thermal        property from said first thermotropic material;    -   d. Repeat for each additionally desired thermotropic material        layer, wherein said additional thermotropic material has a        slightly different thermal property from the other thermotropic        material layers; and    -   e. Apply a top encapsulant layer.

A thirty-eighth aspect of the present invention is a method offabrication, wherein said Mood Patch is fabricated via the followingprocess:

-   -   a. Locate a section of base material;    -   b. Apply text for indicating a result of being exposed to a        respective temperature;    -   c. Apply a first cholesteric liquid crystal composition;    -   d. Apply a second cholesteric liquid crystal composition,        wherein said second cholesteric liquid crystal composition has a        slightly different thermal property from said first cholesteric        liquid crystal composition; and    -   e. Repeat for each additionally desired cholesteric liquid        crystal composition layer, wherein said additional cholesteric        liquid crystal compositions have a slightly different thermal        property from the other cholesteric liquid crystal composition        layers.

A thirty-ninth aspect of the present invention is a method offabrication, wherein said thermotropic material is applied via ascreen-printing process.

A fortieth aspect of the present invention is a method of fabrication,wherein said thermotropic material is applied via a dispensing process.

A forty-first aspect of the present invention is a method offabrication, wherein said thermotropic material is applied via adispensing process, placing said thermotropic material within an areadefined by a material dam.

A forty-second aspect of the present invention is a method offabrication, wherein said damming material is applied via ascreen-printing process.

A forty-third aspect of the present invention is a method offabrication, wherein said damming material is applied via a dispensingprocess.

A forty-fourth aspect of the present invention is a method offabrication, wherein said dispensing process is automated.

A forty-fifth aspect of the present invention is a method offabrication, wherein said screen-printing process is automated.

A forty-sixth aspect of the present invention is the utilization of saidMood Patch in Research, wherein said mood patch could be utilized as aninvestigative tool in: studying emotions, alterations in emotionalfunctioning after injuries, variance in emotions based on differentialdiagnosis, infant/parent interactive communication styles in attachment,etc.

A forty-seventh aspect of the present invention is the incorporation ofa calibration indicator.

A forty-eighth aspect of the present invention is the incorporation of acalibration indicator, wherein the calibration indicator rotates toindicate a “normal” position.

A forty-ninth aspect of the present invention is the incorporation of acalibration indicator, wherein the calibration indicator slides toindicate a “normal” position.

A fiftieth aspect of the present invention is the incorporation of aseries of thermal indicators, wherein the series of thermal indicators,each having a functioning temperature of a small temperature delta fromthe adjacent thermal indicator.

A fifty-first aspect of the present invention is the incorporation of aseries of thermal indicators, wherein the series of thermal indicators,each having a functioning temperature of a small temperature delta fromthe adjacent thermal indicator, wherein the temperature delta is one of0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0 degree Fahrenheit.

A fifty-second aspect of the present invention is the incorporation ofemotional status indicators on a member that moves in conjunction withthe calibration member.

A fifty-third aspect of the present invention is the incorporation of acalibration member that is adhered to a mood indication apparatus.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

For the purpose of initially illustrating the invention, thespecification presents drawings, flow diagrams, and embodiments that arepresently preferred as well as alternates. It should be understood,however, that the invention is not limited to the specificinstrumentality and methods disclosed herein. It can be recognized thatthe figures represent a layout in which persons skilled in the art maymake variations therein. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 presents a currently known mood ring;

FIG. 2 presents a chart for identifying a respective mood of anindividual when using one embodiment of said present invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates representative mood patches respective to saidpresent invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates layers respective to the fabrication of a mood patch;

FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram representative of a process forutilizing said mood patch for clinically monitoring an individual;

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram representative of a process forutilizing said mood patch for clinically monitoring and providing actionrespective to an individual's emotional state;

FIG. 7 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the present invention,further illustrating the utilization of a plurality of thermotropicmaterials, having at least two different temperature ranges;

FIG. 8 illustrates another alternate embodiment of the presentinvention, further illustrating the utilization of a plurality ofthermotropic materials, wherein said thermotropic materials have atleast two different temperature ranges, and utilizing a cholestericliquid crystal composition;

FIG. 9 illustrates a flow diagram representing a fabrication process fora Mood Patch comprising a plurality of thermotropic materials, whereinsaid thermotropic materials have at least two different temperatureranges;

FIG. 10 illustrates a calibratable mood patch in accordance with a firstembodiment;

FIG. 11 illustrates an assembly drawing of said calibratable mood patchin accordance with a first embodiment;

FIG. 12 illustrates a calibratable mood patch in accordance with asecond embodiment; and

FIG. 13 illustrates a calibratable mood patch in accordance with a thirdembodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 presents know prior art, commonly referred to as a Mood Ring 10.Said Mood Ring 10 comprises a Mood Ring Frame 12 and a Mood Ring LiquidCrystal Material 14. Said Mood Ring Liquid Crystal Material 14comprising thermotropic liquid crystals, wherein said thermotropicliquid crystals change color when subjected to subtle changes intemperature. Said Mood Ring Liquid Crystal Material 14 is generallyencased in a glass (or similar) encapsulant (not shown). A Mood RingCross Section A-A 16 is presented for clarity of the fabrication of saidMood Ring 10. It can be recognized that other materials that changecolor as subjected to subtle changes in temperature can be utilized forthe same resulting feature.

FIG. 2 presents an example of an emotion Monitoring Color ReferenceChart 100. Said Emotion Monitoring Color Reference Chart 100 isrespective to the specific thermotropic material selected for the MoodRing Liquid Crystal Material 14; wherein said thermotropic materialpresents a resultant color change of the Mood Ring Liquid CrystalMaterial 14 when subjected to a change in temperature. Said EmotionMonitoring Color Reference Chart 100 is presented based upon propertiesfrom a commonly known Mood Ring 10.

When said Mood Ring Liquid Crystal Material 14 exhibits a Black ColorObserved 102 color, the interpretation is considered as an emotionalstate of stressed, tense, or feeling harried emotion 102 a.

When said Mood Ring Liquid Crystal Material 14 exhibits a Gray ColorObserved 104 color, the interpretation is considered as an emotionalstate of very nervous or very anxious emotion 104 a.

When said Mood Ring Liquid Crystal Material 14 exhibits an amber/Yellowcolor observed 106 color, the interpretation is considered as anemotional state of a little nervous or anxious emotion 106 a.

When said Mood Ring Liquid Crystal Material 14 exhibits a Green colorobserved 108 color, the interpretation is considered as an emotionalstate of relaxed, normal, or average emotion 108 a.

When said Mood Ring Liquid Crystal Material 14 exhibits a Blue-Greencolor observed 110 color, the interpretation is considered as anemotional state of somewhat relaxed emotion 110 a.

When said Mood Ring Liquid Crystal Material 14 exhibits a Blue colorobserved 112 color, the interpretation is considered as an emotionalstate of calm or relaxed emotion 112 a.

When said Mood Ring Liquid Crystal Material 14 exhibits a Dark Blue/Navycolor observed 114 color, the interpretation is considered as anemotional state of happy, romantic, or passionate emotion 114 a.

FIG. 3 illustrates a generically shaped Mood Patch 200 in conjunctionwith the present invention. Said generically shaped Mood Patch 200comprising a mood patch backing material 202 and a mood patch thermalsensing material 204. Additionally, a sealing material can be appliedover said mood patch thermal sensing material 204. Said genericallyshaped Mood Patch 200 can alternatively be of any imaginable shape,preferably, of a shape that is desirable to the wearer. Additionalexamples of alternate shapes shown include a heart shaped mood patch 200a, an oval shaped mood patch 200 b, and a star shaped mood patch 200 c.Other shapes include square, rectangular, round, triangular, and thelike. Additionally, said generically shaped Mood Patch 200 can be in theshape of recognizable objects including cars, trucks, boats, planes,trains, computers, roller-skates, skateboards, surfboards, footballs,basketballs, hockey equipment, shoes, badges, and the like. It isrecognized that the shape of the generically shaped Mood Patch 200 canadd interest by the user as the user can relate to said shape.Additionally, color can be added around the applied mood patch thermalsensing material 204, wherein said color can reduce the obviousness ofthe mood patch thermal sensing material 204. Color can be applied aseither a single color or multiple colors such as a print to portray animage that is aesthetically pleasing.

FIG. 4 illustrates the steps of fabricating said generically shaped MoodPatch 200. Said generically shaped Mood Patch 200 would start with amood patch backing material 202. Said mood patch backing material 202would be preferably in a sheet or roll of raw material. Said mood patchbacking material 202 would comprise a base material, wherein said basematerial can be metallic (preferably flexible such as aluminum foil),paper, fabric, woven fiber, and the like. It would be desirable suchthat said mood patch backing material 202 is non-allergenic. It would bedesirable such that said mood patch backing material 202 is of amaterial that “breathes”. The mood patch backing material 202 wouldfurther comprise an adhesive, said adhesive is placed on a Mood Patchbackside 214 of said mood patch backing material 202. Said adhesive canbe pre-applied to Mood Patch backside 214 of said mood patch backingmaterial 202 or applied during the fabrication process. Said mood patchthermal sensing material 204 can comprise liquid crystal polymer 210 andliquid crystal encapsulant 212. Said liquid crystal polymer 210 is thenapplied to a Mood Patch front side 216 by any of many known methods,including dispensing, screening, spraying, and the like. Said liquidcrystal polymer 210 is applied and optionally heated for curing; all inconjunction with said material type. Said liquid crystal polymer 210 cancomprise thermotropic liquid crystals, cholesteric liquid crystalcompositions, and the like. Said liquid crystal encapsulant 212 isapplied over said liquid crystal polymer 210 as an encapsulant andprotectant layer. The figure illustrates two locations of the layers—afirst image showing the layers in distant formation for clarity and asecond image shown in dashed lines illustrating the final alignment ofthe layers upon application. The material applied would be cured inaccordance with the material requirements. The preferred embodiment offabrication would be to apply the various layers to the sheets or rollsof said mood patch backing material 202. An adhesive protection materialcan be applied over the adhesive material that was applied to said moodpatch backing material 202. Artwork can be applied to improve theaesthetics of said generically shaped Mood Patch 200. Once completed,the said generically shaped Mood Patch 200 would be shaped from thesheet or roll of completed units by any of known methods, includingsingulation, steel rule die, computer controlled cutting, lasersingulation, and the like.

FIG. 5 presents a Mood Patch monitoring flow diagram 300 illustratingthe steps of monitoring a mood patch as a means for an individual tomonitor another's emotional state as a means to assist in clinicaltreatment/emotional understanding of another party. Said Mood Patchmonitoring flow diagram 300 begins with a step of applying mood patch toan individual 302. Once applied, said generically shaped Mood Patch 200is subjected to the temperature of a contact area (not shown). Saidcontact area is defined as the interface between said Mood Patchbackside 214 of said generically shaped Mood Patch 200 and theindividual where said generically shaped Mood Patch 200 is applied. Asthe contact area temperature changes the temperature change istransferred to the generically shaped Mood Patch 200. The result is achange is transferred to said mood patch thermal sensing material 204causing said mood patch thermal sensing material 204 to twist or changeposition. The resultant change in orientation causes a change in themolecular structure. The change in molecular structure changes theinteraction with wavelengths of light resulting in an apparent change incolor. The monitoring party accomplishes a step of monitoring mood patchfor change in color 304 for identifying when to react to a mood changeof the monitored party (individual). While accomplishing said step ofmonitoring mood patch for change in color 304, the monitoring partyaccomplishes a step of determining if said mood patch changes to a colorconsidered critical 306. The monitoring party can use either training,an index, and the like to interpret the presented color of saidgenerically shaped Mood Patch 200. The monitoring party, in accordancewith said step of determining if said mood patch changes to a colorconsidered critical 306, determines if the monitored individual's moodshould be acted upon in accordance with a step of acting in accordanceto mood identified 308. Should the monitoring party determine that themonitored individual's mood is acceptable, the monitoring party proceedsto said step of monitoring mood patch for change in color 304. Shouldthe monitory party determine that the monitored individual's mood is notacceptable, the monitory party proceeds to said step of acting inaccordance to mood identified 308. Such action could be anything fromasking the monitored individual what they are feeling & sensinginternally, what are they thinking, and whatever emotional label theyutilize to describe their feelings & thoughts. Once determining therespective mood of the monitored individual, the monitoring party wouldtake appropriate action. Such action can include talking to theindividual, segregating the individual from the group, providingmedication, and the like. At any point during the flow, the monitoringparty can decide in accordance with step of deciding to continue tomonitor mood of individual(s) 310, whether to continue monitoring saidmonitored individual's mood. Should the monitoring party decide tocontinue monitoring said monitored individual's mood, the process isreturned to said step of monitoring mood patch for change in color 304.Should the monitoring party decide to discontinue monitoring saidmonitored individual's mood, the process proceeds to a step of removingthe mood patch 312 and subsequent step of step of concluding themonitoring process 314. It can be recognized that said step of removingthe mood patch 312, although courteous and desirable, is not requiredfor concluding the monitoring process. The flow diagram illustrated isrepresentative of the monitoring process and it is understood that theactual process may differ from the details provided herein. The patchesare believed to be unique in that actual acting upon a mood indicatingpatch such as generically shaped Mood Patch 200 in a clinical manner isunique and novel. Although the concept is not claimed by others to beaccurate, it is considered sufficient to be utilized as an aide inproviding insight to a monitoring party to take initiative in respondingto a perceived mood change.

FIG. 6 presents a Mood Patch Color interpretation flow diagram 400illustrating the steps of monitoring a mood patch as a means for anindividual to monitor another's emotional state as a means to assist inclinical treatment/emotional understanding of another party. It isrecognized that the color-coding presented is one that is representativeof a specific mood patch thermal sensing material 204 and calibratedrespectively. The teachings herein are representative to a specificmaterial and therefore should a differing material be used, theresultant color-coding index would differ respectively. The teachingsherein should not be limited to the colors taught herein, but thepatches should be considered representative of the concept and materialutilized in the embodiment of the reduction to practice of the end user.Said Mood Patch Color interpretation flow diagram 400 initiates withsaid step of applying mood patch to an individual 302. The monitoringparty would accomplish said step of monitoring mood patch for change incolor 304, herein describing details of said step of determining if saidmood patch changes to a color considered critical 306 of Mood Patchmonitoring flow diagram 300 of FIG. 5, as described below. Themonitoring party monitors said generically shaped Mood Patch 200 appliedto monitored individual(s) for changes in color. The monitoring partyreviews the generically shaped Mood Patch 200 against the understoodcolor range to determine if any action is required. Said Mood PatchColor interpretation flow diagram 400 is one embodiment of the presentinvention being representative of such embodiment. The monitoring partyaccomplishes a decision step of identifying color as blue, green orcombination therein 402. Should the monitoring party determine suchdecision outcome is “YES”, monitoring party then acts according toresultant step—determining blue, green to interpret as relaxed 404.Should the monitoring party determine such decision outcome is “NO”,monitoring party then continues to determine the correct color output.The monitoring party accomplishes a decision step of identifying coloras black 406. Should the monitoring party determine such decisionoutcome is “YES”, monitoring party then acts according to resultantstep—determining black to interpret as stressed 408. Should themonitoring party determine such decision outcome is “NO”, monitoringparty then continues to determine the correct color output. Themonitoring party accomplishes a decision step of identifying color asyellow 410. Should the monitoring party determine such decision outcomeis “YES”, monitoring party then acts according to resultantstep—determining yellow to interpret as nervous/anxious 412. Should themonitoring party determine such decision outcome is “NO”, monitoringparty then continues to determine the correct color output. Themonitoring party accomplishes a decision step of identifying color asgray 414. Should the monitoring party determine such decision outcome is“YES”, monitoring party then acts according to resultantstep—determining gray to interpret as very nervous 416. Should themonitoring party determine such decision outcome is “NO”, monitoringparty then continues to determine the correct color output. Should themonitoring party have processed through all color options or recognizepresented color as acceptable or no change, the monitoring party wouldconclude the color determination step(s) and accomplish said step ofdeciding to continue to monitor mood of individual(s) 310. Themonitoring party can decide in accordance with step of deciding tocontinue to monitor mood of individual(s) 310, whether to continuemonitoring said monitored individual's mood. Should the monitoring partydecide to continue monitoring said monitored individual's mood, theprocess is returned to said step of monitoring mood patch for change incolor 304. Should the monitoring party decide to discontinue monitoringsaid monitored individual's mood, the process proceeds to a step ofremoving the mood patch 312 and subsequent step of concluding themonitoring process 314. It can be recognized that said step of removingthe mood patch 312, although courteous and desirable, is not requiredfor concluding the monitoring process. The flow diagram illustrated isrepresentative of the monitoring process and it is understood that theactual process may differ from the details provided herein. The patchesare believed to be unique in that actual acting upon a mood indicatingpatch such as generically shaped Mood Patch 200 in a clinical manner isunique and novel. Although the concept is not claimed by others to beaccurate, it is considered sufficient to be utilized as an aide inproviding insight to a monitoring party to take initiative in respondingto a perceived mood change. Additionally, the shape of said genericallyshaped Mood Patch 200 can be in the form of bracelets, necklaces, andother forms of jewelry.

The following defines potential applications for clinical monitoringusing said generically shaped Mood Patch 200:

Hospital Applications

-   -   a. Emergency Rooms    -   b. Pre-op/Operating Rooms/Post Op    -   c. Outpatient Surgery/Recovery Rooms    -   d. Waiting Rooms    -   e. Nurseries    -   f. Radiology applications (X-Ray, MRI, CT and the like)    -   g. Lab workup rooms    -   h. Outpatient support centers    -   i. Hospice Care Facilities

Auxiliary/Emergency Applications

-   -   a. Police    -   b. Fire Stations/Rescue Personnel    -   c. Ambulance

Law Enforcement Centers

-   -   a. Interrogation Facilities    -   b. Jails    -   c. Juvenile Detention Centers    -   d. Prisons    -   e. Courts

Military Applications

-   -   a. Interrogation Facilities    -   b. Training Facilities

Physician's Offices

-   -   a. Pediatric    -   b. Geriatric    -   c. General    -   d. Specialists    -   e. Dental    -   f. Orthodontic

Mental Health Facilities Applications

-   -   a. In-patient    -   b. Out-patient    -   c. Group Homes    -   d. Foster Homes    -   e. Social Worker's Offices    -   f. Psychologist's Offices    -   g. Marital Therapist's Offices

Geriatric Facilities Applications

-   -   a. Assisted Living Centers    -   b. Alzheimer Center    -   c. Nursing Homes

Athletic Applications

-   -   a. Coaches    -   b. Football Players    -   c. Basketball Players    -   d. Baseball Players    -   e. Hockey Players    -   f. Soccer Players    -   g. Swimmers    -   h. Skaters    -   i. Runners    -   j. Tennis Players    -   k. Golf Players    -   l. Volleyball Players

Educational Applications

-   -   a. Students        -   i. Preschool/Early Childhood Education (ECE)        -   ii. Elementary, Middle and High School        -   iii. College        -   iv. Non classroom locations (library, infirmary, and the            like)    -   b. Special Education        -   i. Learning Disabilities (examples: Dyslexia, Dyscalculia,            etc.)        -   ii. Autistic        -   iii. Aspergers        -   iv. Non-verbal learning disabilities        -   v. Emotionally Disturbed        -   vi. Brain Injured/Limited        -   vii. Attention Deficit Disorder        -   viii. Anxiety Disorder    -   c. Hearing Impaired

Businesses

-   -   a. Executives/Management    -   b. Airline personal (Air Traffic Controllers, Pilots, Crew,        Passengers)    -   c. Accountants    -   d. Attorneys

FIG. 7 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the present inventionpresenting a multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch 500 shown intwo views: a multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch top view 500Aand a multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch sectional view 500B.Said multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch 500 provides anapparatus wherein a monitoring party can establish a baseline and thenmonitor a direction of change in emotional state of a wearer.

Said multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch 500 comprising amulti-thermo chromic compositions mood patch backing material 502,wherein said multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch backingmaterial 502 is used as the main member of said multi-thermo chromiccompositions mood patch 500. A mood patch adhesive 512 is applied to acontacting side 514 of said multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch500. Said mood patch adhesive 512 can be of any type of adhesive,preferably one that is similar to adhesive bandage or other medicalgrade removable adhesive. The adhesive could comprise a removablebacking material (not shown) to protect the adhesive prior to use. Aplurality of multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patches 500 can befabricated and presented on a single sheet of removable backingmaterial. Said multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch 500 can beof any shape, but preferably of a shape to distinguish between each of aplurality of thermotropic material deposits. The illustration presents asingle multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch 500 comprising three(3) distinct thermotropic material deposits; it is understood that saidmulti-thermo chromic compositions mood patch 500 could comprise two ormore thermotropic material deposits. The illustration presents a lowtemperature range thermotropic material 506, a mid temperature rangethermotropic material 508, and a high temperature thermotropic rangematerial 510. Each of the various thermotropic materials provides afunctioning range with a center operating temperature and a respectivetemperature range; preferably with each center operating temperature andrespective temperature range differing from the others. The presentinvention provides an apparatus for the wearer to establish a “normal”range at the current state of wearer's emotions. The wearer would adheresaid multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch 500 onto the wearer'sskin, then determine which of the thermotropic material deposits wouldbe considered at a “normal” indication by the color coding or visibletext notation (as shown in FIG. 8). A person would utilize saidmulti-thermo chromic compositions mood patch 500 to monitor theemotional state of a wearer. The monitoring party would determine whichof the plurality of thermotropic material deposits should be establishedand utilized as the optimal monitoring deposit. Further included is anoptional damming material 504. Said optional damming material 504 wouldbe applied to said multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch backingmaterial 502 providing a barrier between each of the plurality ofthermotropic material deposits. Said damming material 504 would aid in adispensing application of said thermotropic material deposits. Sectionalview shows a gap between said damming material 504 and each of theplurality of thermotropic material deposits for clarity purposes;wherein during actual reduction to practice it is more likely that thegap would not exist. This would be a function of the fabricationprocess. Further noted, said mood patch adhesive 512 may be applied tosaid multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch backing material 502in a pattern, leaving the area of said multi-thermo chromic compositionsmood patch backing material 502 comprising said thermotropic materialdeposits clear of said mood patch adhesive 512. Although the imageillustrated is a series of circular shapes, it is recognized that othershapes can be utilized for said multi-thermo chromic compositions moodpatch 500.

FIG. 8 illustrates another alternate embodiment of the presentinvention, illustrating a multi-thermo chromic compositions readablemood patch 550, wherein said multi-thermo chromic compositions readablemood patch 550 utilizes a plurality of cholesteric liquid crystalcompositions. Said cholesteric liquid crystal compositions are designedto become translucent upon exposure to a specific temperature range,thus exposing text printed below said cholesteric liquid crystalcompositions. Said multi-thermo chromic compositions readable mood patch550 would comprise a plurality of cholesteric liquid crystalcompositions, each becoming translucent upon a different temperaturerange for a plurality of human intelligible indicators. Such indicatorsare preferably readable text 552, illustrated as visible text 552A andhidden text 552B.

Said multi-thermo chromic compositions readable mood patch 550comprising said multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch backingmaterial 502, wherein said multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patchbacking material 502 provides the base for said multi-thermo chromiccompositions readable mood patch 550. Said mood patch adhesive 512 isapplied to said contacting side 514 of said multi-thermo chromiccompositions readable mood patch 550 in the same manner as describedabove. A printed indicator such as readable text 552, illustrated asvisible text 552A and hidden text 552B are applied to said multi-thermochromic compositions mood patch backing material 502 via a printingprocess. It is preferable that a plurality of readable text 552 imagesare utilized to provide the variety of emotions that can be interpretedby said multi-thermo chromic compositions readable mood patch 550. Eachemotion can be related to a respective skin temperature range. Tocalibrate said multi-thermo chromic compositions readable mood patch550, one can provide a plurality of readable text 552 images, whereinsaid readable text 552 images are covered with a plurality ofcholesteric liquid crystal compositions. Each cholesteric liquid crystalcomposition is designed to become translucent upon being exposed to aspecific temperature. Said cholesteric liquid crystal compositions arepresented as a thermal material range A 554, thermal material range B556, thermal material range C 558, thermal material range D 560, thermalmaterial range E 562, thermal material range F 564, and thermal materialrange G 566, wherein said thermal material range A 554 would berepresentative of the coolest functioning temperature range and thermalmaterial range G 566 would be representative of the warmest functioningtemperature range. It is noted that the same material: thermal materialrange C 558, thermal material range D 560, and thermal material range E562 are applied to two (2) locations, but offset respective to theindicator. The monitoring party would view said multi-thermo chromiccompositions readable mood patch 550 and determine which of the seriesof human intelligible indicators indicates a Normal status for thewearer. Upon determination of the “calibrated” series, the monitoringparty would continue to monitor said selected series for changes inemotion of the wearer. As the wearer's body surface temperature changes,the previously translucent cholesteric liquid crystal composition wouldbecome opaque, hiding the respective indicator and a differentcholesteric liquid crystal composition would become translucent exposinga different indicator. The monitoring party can monitor the directionand degree of emotional change of the wearer without relying oncommunication from the wearer. Although the image illustrated is arectangle, it is recognized that other shapes can be utilized for saidmulti-thermo chromic compositions readable mood patch 550.

FIG. 9 illustrates a flow diagram representing a multi-thermo chromiccompositions mood patch fabrication process 600 presenting the steps forfabricating a multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch 500comprising a plurality of thermotropic materials. For the fabrication ofa multi-thermo chromic compositions mood patch 500 using a translucenttype of cholesteric liquid crystal composition, one would apply humanintelligible indicators such as indicator text 552 is applied to saidviewing side 516 in accordance with an optional indicator applicationstep 602. This can be completed using any known printing process,including screening, printing, tampo-transfer, and the like. An optionaldamming material 504 is then applied in a desired pattern to saidviewing side 516 in accordance with an optional damming materialapplication step 604. Said optional damming material 504 is preferablyof a flexible material such as a rubber, flexible plastic, silicon, andthe like. Said optional damming material 504 can be applied via aprinting process, a dispensing process, a transfer process and the like.Thermotropic material is then applied in a series of application/curingsteps. A first thermotropic material composition is applied inaccordance with a first thermotropic material application step 606. Saidfirst thermotropic material composition is then cured in accordance withthe manufacturers directions. A next thermotropic material compositionis applied in accordance with a next thermotropic material applicationstep 608. Said next thermotropic material composition is then cured inaccordance with the manufacturers directions. Said next thermotropicmaterial application step 608 is repeated for the remaining thermotropicmaterial compositions. An optional sealant layer is applied over themultiple thermotropic material composition deposits in accordance withan optional encapsulant layer application step 610. Mood patch adhesive512 is applied to said contacting side 514 of said multi-thermo chromiccompositions mood patch backing material 502 in accordance with anadhesive application step 612. Said mood patch adhesive 512 can beapplied covering the complete contacting side 514 or a portion of thecontacting side 514, preferably in a pattern respective to the patternof thermotropic material deposits. Said multi-thermo chromiccompositions mood patch 500 is then singulated in accordance with a moodpatch singulation step 614. Said mood patch singulation step 614 can beaccomplished via any singulation method, including steel rule die, lasercutting, programmable shears, and the like. Said multi-thermo chromiccompositions mood patch fabrication process 600 concludes with amulti-thermo chromic compositions mood patch fabrication completion step616. An alternate process would be to apply said thermotropic materialdeposits to said encapsulation, then apply said multi-thermo chromiccompositions mood patch backing material 502, then apply said mood patchadhesive 512.

FIG. 10 illustrates a top view and a sectional view of a calibratablemood identifying apparatus 600. Said calibratable mood identifyingapparatus 600 comprising the general components of said multi-thermochromic compositions mood patch 500 and said multi-thermo chromiccompositions readable mood patch 550 arranged in a configurationproviding a member for calibrating said calibratable mood identifyingapparatus 600. Said calibratable mood identifying apparatus 600Aillustrates a top view of said calibratable mood identifying apparatus600, presenting a calibration indicator 622. Said calibration indicator622 comprising a calibration dial hub 616, wherein said calibration dialhub 616 provides a means for coupling said calibration indicator 622 toan assembly via a calibration dial coupling member 618. Said calibrationindicator 622 would be coupled to a mood status calibration dial 614,wherein said mood status calibration dial 614 rotates in conjunctionwith a calibration dial rotation 615 of said calibration indicator 622.The user would apply said calibratable mood identifying apparatus 600 tothe skin of a wearing party, preferably on the wearing party's hand orarm. Since each section of said wearing party's body has a differenttemperature, said calibratable mood identifying apparatus 600 provides ameans for calibrating the device by adjusting said calibration indicator622 into a position which references the current state of the wearingparty. A series of mood indicators (Happy, Relaxed, Nervous, Tense, andthe like) are printed upon said mood status calibration dial 614. Saidmood indicators rotate into a calibrated position respective to each ofa various thermal material 605. Said thermal material 605 would becomparable to said mood patch thermal sensing material 204 presentedearlier. Said thermal material 605 is a generic term, wherein saidcalibratable mood identifying apparatus 600 comprising a plurality ofsaid thermal material 605; each having a slightly different functionaltemperature as follows:

-   -   a. neutral temperature thermal material deposit 630    -   b. neutral temperature plus x thermal material deposit 632    -   c. neutral temperature plus 2× thermal material deposit 634    -   d. neutral temperature plus 3× thermal material deposit 636    -   e. neutral temperature plus 4× thermal material deposit 638    -   f. neutral temperature minus x thermal material deposit 640    -   g. neutral temperature minus 2× thermal material deposit 642    -   h. neutral temperature minus 3× thermal material deposit 644    -   i. neutral temperature minus 4× thermal material deposit 646

Said neutral temperature would be preferably a midpoint of thetemperature range of all said thermal material 605. “X” would be atemperature delta such as 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.0 degrees Fahrenheit. Eachthermal material deposit would be a multiple of said temperature deltaas indicated in the above list. I.e. 2× would be two (2) times thetemperature delta.

Said calibratable mood identifying apparatus 600B is a cross sectionalview of said calibratable mood identifying apparatus 600. Saidcalibration dial coupling member 618 rotationally assembles saidcalibration indicator 622 and respective said mood status calibrationdial 614 to a functional section of said calibratable mood identifyingapparatus 600. Said calibratable mood patch base material 602 providesthe primary framework for said calibratable mood identifying apparatus600. an adhesive material 604 is coupled to a calibratable moodidentifying apparatus contacting side 606 of said calibratable moodpatch base material 602, wherein said adhesive material 604 provides anadhesion which removably couples said calibratable mood identifyingapparatus 600 to a wearing party. It is desirable that said adhesivematerial 604 is non-allergenic. Optionally, a optional printed image 608can be applied to said calibratable mood patch base material 602,wherein said optional printed image 608 becomes visible upon thermalactivation of said thermal material 605. An optional damming material610 is applied to a calibratable mood identifying apparatusidentification side 612 of said calibratable mood patch base material602. Said thermal material 605 would be applied within a thermalmaterial dam reservoir (thermal material dam reservoir 611 of FIG. 11).A mood apparatus clear overlay 620 is a clear laminate and would beassembled providing an external surface above said optional dammingmaterial 610 and said thermal material 605. Said functional sectionwould comprising the components between said adhesive material 604 andsaid mood apparatus clear overlay 620.

FIG. 11 illustrates an isometric assembly view of said calibratable moodidentifying apparatus 600 as a calibratable mood identifying apparatus600C. A coupling member receiving aperture 619 would be incorporatedinto each of said calibration dial hub 616, mood apparatus clear overlay620, calibratable mood patch base material 602, and adhesive material604. Additionally introduced is an adhesive backing material 603,wherein said adhesive backing material 603 is provided to protect theadhesive of said adhesive material 604 until said calibratable moodidentifying apparatus 600 is placed onto the wearing party. Theillustration provides an alternate view, providing more detail of therelations between each of said optional damming material 610, thermalmaterial dam reservoir 611 and said thermal material 605. Said moodapparatus clear overlay 620 would be a transparent material placed onthe top of the functional section of said calibratable mood identifyingapparatus 600. Said mood status calibration dial 614/calibrationindicator 622 assembly could be of a thin, flexible plastic material.Said optional damming material 610 can be applied via a laminateprocess, printing process, and the like. Said thermal material 605 canbe applied via a dispensing process, printing process, and the like. Itwould be preferable that said calibratable mood patch base material 602be provided with said adhesive material 604 and said adhesive backingmaterial 603 as a single, raw material. Said coupling member receivingaperture 619 would be punched through the functional section assembly.This step can be incorporated into the singulation step presented laterherein. Said calibration assembly would be fabricated by printinginformation on the raw material, then cutting said calibration assemblyto shape such as by using a steel rule die. The units would be assembledin an array and then singulated. Said calibration assembly is assembledto said functional section Although said calibratable mood identifyingapparatus 600 is shown as having a circular shape, it can be recognizedthat the outline can be in any shape, such as those described previouslyherein. Additionally, said calibratable mood patch base material 602 orsaid optional damming material 610 can incorporate artwork (not shown),wherein said artwork would compliment the shape of the object. One suchexample would be an outline of a Dinosaur, wherein said artwork wouldcomprise features of said Dinosaur.

FIG. 12 illustrates an alternate embodiment of said calibratable moodidentifying apparatus 600, wherein said embodiment comprises two sets ofmood indicators. Said calibratable mood identifying apparatus 600 wouldbe fabricated with a plurality of complete calibratable mood indicationsections. This provides the user with the ability to further improve thecalibration of said calibratable mood identifying apparatus 600. Thewearer would apply said calibratable mood identifying apparatus 600 tothe wearer's body, then set the calibration dial. By incorporating aplurality of calibratable mood indication sections, one can obtainbetter feedback from said calibratable mood identifying apparatus 600and take into considerations any slight variations in temperature overthe contact area of said calibratable mood identifying apparatus 600.

FIG. 13 illustrates a slidable calibratable mood identifying apparatus650, wherein said slidable calibratable mood identifying apparatus 650provides the same overall concept of said calibratable mood identifyingapparatus 600, yet in a different embodiment. Said slidable calibratablemood identifying apparatus 650 incorporates a calibrating mood statusindication slide bar member 652, wherein said calibrating mood statusindication slide bar member 652 slides to provide a calibration meansfor said slidable calibratable mood identifying apparatus 650, ascompared to said calibration indicator 622 of said calibratable moodidentifying apparatus 600 which provides calibration via a rotation.Said calibrating mood status indication slide bar member 652 would beslideably coupled to said functional section via at least one slide barindicator coupling member 654 providing a slide bar calibration slidemotion 656. Said slide bar indicator coupling member 654 could be a pairof slits in said mood apparatus clear overlay 620 wherein said slide barindicator coupling member 654 would be slidably oriented as illustrated.With said mood apparatus clear overlay 620 being preferably transparent,said slide bar indicator coupling member 654 would not impact thereadability of any of the markings placed onto said calibrating moodstatus indication slide bar member 652. The user would remove saidadhesive material 604 from said slidable calibratable mood identifyingapparatus 650 and adhesively couple said slidable calibratable moodidentifying apparatus 650 to the wearer, preferably near the wearer'sappendages. Once adhesively coupled, said thermal material 605 wouldadjust in accordance with the contacting temperature and respectiveoperating temperature for each unique deposition. The respective saidthermal material 605 would change color. The user would then slideablyadjust said calibrating mood status indication slide bar member 652 toalign a slide calibration indicator 660 to the respective said thermalmaterial 605 which became activated by the respective temperature of thewearer's skin. As the temperature of the wearer's skin changes, therespective thermal material 605 would change status respectively, aseach of the plurality of thermal material 605 is of a differentactivation temperature chemistry. As the activation of said thermalmaterial 605 move towards the left as shown, the wearer is becoming moretense; as the activation of said thermal material 605 move towards theright as shown, the wearer is becoming more relaxed. The illustrationfurther presents a cross sectional view of said slidable calibratablemood identifying apparatus 650 as said slidable calibratable moodidentifying apparatus 650B.

The Applicants have provided a method and apparatus, with severaloptions, for creating and using mood patch(s). Although the apparatusand methods taught herein are the preferred and alternate embodiments,it can be recognized that other form factors, materials, and methods ofachieving the same results can be contrived from the disclosedteachings.

1. A mood patch, said mood patch comprising: a flexible, mood patch basematerial; a mood patch adhesive applied to a contact side of said moodpatch base material; a plurality of thermo chromic material depositsapplied to a viewing side of said mood patch base material, wherein saidthermo chromic material deposits comprising a composition which changesappearance in accordance with an activation temperature; a movableemotion status indicator which is moveably coupled to said mood patch;and wherein said movable emotion status indicator provides a referencewhich identifies a person's mood via a change in appearance of saidthermo chromic material.
 2. The mood patch of claim 1, wherein at leastone of said thermo chromic material deposits has a first activationtemperature and at least a second of said thermo chromic materialdeposits has a second activation temperature, wherein said firstactivation temperature differs from said second activation temperature.3. The mood patch of claim 1, wherein said movable emotion statusindicator is positioned via a rotational motion.
 4. The mood patch ofclaim 1, wherein said movable emotion status indicator is positioned viaa sliding motion.
 5. The mood patch of claim 1, wherein said movableemotion status indicator comprising a calibration indication, anindication of increasing tension, and an indication of increasingrelaxation.
 6. The mood patch of claim 1, comprising at least fivethermo chromic material deposits, wherein each of the five thermochromic material deposits having a different activation temperature. 7.The mood patch of claim 1, comprising at least five thermo chromicmaterial deposits, wherein each of the five thermo chromic materialdeposits having a different activation temperature, said thermo chromicmaterial deposits are arranged in the order of activation temperature byat least one of increasing and decreasing activation temperature.
 8. Amood patch, said mood patch comprising: a mood patch base material; aplurality of thermo chromic material deposits applied to a viewing sideof said mood patch base material, wherein said thermo chromic materialdeposits comprising a composition which change in appearance inaccordance with an activation temperature; a mood status indication dialwhich is rotationally coupled to said mood patch; and wherein said moodstatus indication dial provides a reference which identifies a person'smood via a change in appearance of said thermo chromic material.
 9. Themood patch of claim 8, said mood patch further comprising a mood patchadhesive applied to a contact side of said mood patch backing material;10. The mood patch of claim 8, wherein at least one of said thermochromic material deposits has a first activation temperature and atleast a second of said thermo chromic material deposits has a secondactivation temperature, wherein said first activation temperaturediffers from said second activation temperature.
 11. The mood patch ofclaim 8, wherein said mood status indication dial comprising acalibration indication, an indication of increasing tension, and anindication of increasing relaxation.
 12. The mood patch of claim 8,comprising at least five thermo chromic material deposits, wherein eachof the five thermo chromic material deposits having a differentactivation temperature.
 13. The mood patch of claim 12, wherein saidmood status indication dial comprising a calibration indication, anindication of increasing tension, and an indication of increasingrelaxation.
 14. A mood patch, said mood patch comprising: a mood patchbase material; a plurality of thermo chromic material deposits appliedto a viewing side of said mood patch base material, wherein said thermochromic material deposits comprising a composition which change inappearance in accordance with an activation temperature; a mood statusindication slide bar which is slideably coupled to said mood patch; andwherein said mood status indication slide bar provides a reference whichidentifies a person's mood via a change in appearance of said thermochromic material.
 15. The mood patch of claim 14, said mood patchfurther comprising a mood patch adhesive applied to a contact side ofsaid mood patch backing material.
 16. The mood patch of claim 14,wherein at least one of said thermo chromic material deposits has afirst activation temperature and at least a second of said thermochromic material deposits has a second activation temperature, whereinsaid first activation temperature differs from said second activationtemperature.
 17. The mood patch of claim 14, wherein said mood statusindication slide bar comprising a calibration indication, an indicationof increasing tension, and an indication of increasing relaxation. 18.The mood patch of claim 17, said mood patch further comprising a moodpatch adhesive applied to a contact side of said mood patch backingmaterial.
 19. The mood patch of claim 14, comprising at least fivethermo chromic material deposits, wherein each of the five thermochromic material deposits having a different activation temperature. 20.The mood patch of claim 19, wherein said mood status indication dialcomprising a calibration indication, an indication of increasingtension, and an indication of increasing relaxation.